For Iowa State University Department of Animal Science alumna Kelsey Sindelar, the journey to a successful career in the meat industry has been anything but linear. From a kid who once dreamed of becoming a veterinarian to becoming a leader in the meat industry, Kelsey’s path reflects the power of exploration, involvement, and embracing change.
Originally from Moline, Kelsey did not grow up on a farm, but she arrived at Iowa State with a strong interest in animals and a plan to pursue veterinary medicine. Like many students in the animal science program, however, her goals evolved as she gained exposure to new experiences. Through her coursework and hands-on opportunities, she realized that while she still loved animal science, her interests were shifting toward a different side of the industry - meat science. 
Determined to make the most of her college experience, Kelsey sought out ways to immerse herself in agriculture and animal science. She became deeply involved across campus, building both her knowledge and her network. Sindelar was a member of the Iowa State cheerleading program all four years, cheering for football, basketball, wrestling, volleyball, and participating in competitive cheer. In addition to her athletic involvement, she was highly engaged within the animal science department. She participated in the Animal Science Academic Quadrathlon, Meat Science Quiz Bowl, and Meat Science Club, where she served as both president and vice president. She also worked in the Lonergan Muscle Biology Lab, served as a teaching assistant for several animal science courses, coached the quiz bowl team as a graduate student, and contributed to programs like Science with Practice and university short courses. Her experiences even took her abroad to South Korea, further expanding her global perspective on agriculture and food systems.
One of the most influential turning points in Kelsey’s academic journey came through her coursework, particularly ANS 2700: Foods of Animal Origin, her favorite Animal Science class. This class helped spark her interest in meat science, ultimately leading her to pursue a master’s degree in the field. What began as a shift away from veterinary medicine turned into a passion for understanding the science behind meat production, product development, and consumer preferences.
Kelsey’s professional experiences reinforced her academic interests and helped shape her career path. She completed positions with Hy-Vee, where she worked behind the meat counter, as well as internships with Burke Corporation and Hillshire Brands. These roles gave her valuable insight into various aspects of the meat industry. After completing her education, she began her career at Tyson Foods as a food scientist, focusing on product development for quick-service restaurants, working with companies like Texas Roadhouse and Popeyes. Her career continued to evolve when she joined the Meat Institute, where she gained broader exposure to the meat industry and its challenges and opportunities.
Today, Kelsey serves as the Process Innovation Director at Jones Dairy Farm, a role that allows her to have a direct impact on products from start to finish. She leads a team that works across multiple areas, including product development, process optimization, process control, and culinary innovation. From ideas to final production, her team ensures that products meet high standards for quality, efficiency, and consumer appeal. Her work sits at the intersection of science, business, and creativity, demonstrating the wide range of opportunities available within the animal science field.
Kelsey has also remained actively engaged with Iowa State and continues to give back to the program that helped shape her career. Recently, she participated in a multi-day working session to help develop the university’s new Animal Enterprise and Innovation major. Bringing her perspective from the meat science industry, she contributed to conversations about how to better prepare students for the evolving demands of the workforce. She emphasized the importance of combining technical animal science knowledge with business skills, helping to create graduates who are well-suited for roles such as product managers, technical sales professionals, and industry leaders. Her involvement reflects her commitment to ensuring that future Iowa State students are equipped to succeed.
Looking back on her journey, Kelsey credits her willingness to try new things and step outside of her comfort zone as key factors in her success. Her advice to current and future students is simple, but powerful: “Never be afraid to try and take chances. Some of the best things in life can come from taking a chance and trying something out of your comfort zone. College is the time to try those things.”
Kelsey Sindelar’s story is a testament to the value of staying open to new opportunities, getting involved, and embracing change. Her journey shows that while not every path goes as planned, those unexpected turns can lead to meaningful and rewarding careers.